Sound like you don't necessarily need a bike that you can fold in five minutes, but that you can easily travel with? If so, one great option is a standard frame with S&S couplers. I have a Bianchi with these and it is truly the bee's knees. takes about 20mins to pack in the box, but you have all the benefits of standard geometry and touring gear. Lots of great framebuilders are making frames with these couplers. it's worth a look.
Please note that I also own a Bike friday tandem two'sday that my wife and I have used for loaded touring, so I understand the benefits and drawbacks of both setups. Just want you to have as much infop as possible!
http://www.sandsmachine.com/